{"monthlySchoolDonationEnabled":false,"callToActionDisplayName":"William Smith High School","outOfStateSupporters":39.4,"allowSchoolLevelGiving":true,"hasFundedProjects":true,"projectGratitudeData":[{"teacherId":4436247,"projectId":9266752,"letterContent":"Thank you for the impactful donations; your generosity inspires our students to be bold and future donors to our community. We completed a 9th grade orientation with great success! The hula hoops have been fantastic for our team-building activities, and the connection cards are helping strengthen our relationships. Your gift of the microphone and speaker will enhance our upcoming book reading, allowing students to share their work confidently. Additionally, the Cricut tools, vinyl, and shirts are perfect for designing our team uniforms, fostering a sense of pride and unity. Our students were so excited to receive matching t-shirts and sweatshirts that they wear with pride. Your support means so much to us!","fullyFundedDate":1746787334484,"projectUrl":"project/training-student-leaders-to-facilitate-s/9266752/","projectTitle":"Training Student Leaders to Facilitate School Culture!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. S.","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/4436247"},{"teacherId":9223383,"projectId":8576456,"letterContent":"Thank you for the materials. They have had an amazing impact in the classroom. The ability to track the speed of projectiles has helped students grasp kinematic equations and explore labs we weren't able to before. Watching the students have fun and engaging in math and physics is awesome!\r\n\r\nI cant thank all the donors enough. It is obvious in the questions that my students are asking that the intellectual curiosity of my students has been impacted by the added technology. The projectile lessons have became so much more interactive.","fullyFundedDate":1727462786510,"projectUrl":"project/the-beauty-of-motion-kinematics-and-pro/8576456/","projectTitle":"The Beauty of Motion: Kinematics and Projectiles","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Niccoli","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-2_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9223383"},{"teacherId":9632907,"projectId":8576071,"letterContent":"The project aimed to explore the dynamic intersection of art and communication by developing a series of visual representations that encapsulated complex ideas and concepts for planning project based curriculum. Utilizing easel pads and whiteboard easels, participants created a diverse array of visual mediums, including illustrations, infographics, and data visualizations, designed to effectively convey these project plans. The project intended to break down barriers associated with traditional planning, making profound concepts more approachable and engaging for a broader audience.\r\n\r\nWe focused on visual storytelling, encouraging participants to reimagine how complex information could be communicated creatively. By fostering an environment that blended artistic expression with analytical thought, the initiative not only aimed to enhance understanding and retention of intricate ideas but also inspired new perspectives. Ultimately, this our planning was successful as most projects were implemented in the 2nd and 3rd quarter of this year.\r\n\r\nThis approach, with the appropriate design tools, helped us reimagine student learning experiences and broaden our planning approaches.","fullyFundedDate":1727462829155,"projectUrl":"project/enhance-thinking-through-visual-represen/8576071/","projectTitle":"Enhance Thinking Through Visual Representation","teacherDisplayName":"Mr. Mann","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9632907"},{"teacherId":9231586,"projectId":8575861,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for your generous support of our geochemistry and lapidary project! Your contributions have provided my students with incredible hands-on experiences that sparked their curiosity and transformed their understanding of science. The materials funded through your kindness allowed us to dive into exciting activities, such as creating glass beads and conducting flame tests, that connected the abstract concepts of chemistry to the tangible beauty of gems and minerals.\r\n\r\nOne of the highlights of this project was watching students use the chemicals to create stunning glass beads. Through this process, they explored how light reflection, heat, clarity, and elemental composition shape the physical properties of minerals. It was thrilling to see their discoveries come full circle as they worked on lapidary machines to shape and polish real gemstones. Another unforgettable moment was during our flame tests. Students were captivated by the vibrant colors produced by burning different metal salts, a perfect demonstration of how elements influence the colors of the jewelry pieces they created. They eagerly researched the periodic table to connect these colors to the chemical composition of their gems, bringing both art and science to life in our classroom.\r\n\r\nFor many of my students, this project marked their first hands-on lab experience. Some shared that this was what they always imagined science to be—full of discovery and excitement—rather than just worksheets. Watching their faces light up as they engaged with flames, colors, and minerals was priceless. While this class has ended, the resources you provided will continue to enrich future students as part of an introductory chemistry project. Your generosity has not only made this experience possible but has also laid the groundwork for many more moments of discovery and inspiration.\r\n\r\nThank you for giving my students the opportunity to explore, create, and learn in ways they never thought possible. Your support has truly made a lasting impact.","fullyFundedDate":1727462709060,"projectUrl":"project/colorado-rocks-geochemistry-lapidary/8575861/","projectTitle":"Colorado Rocks! Geochemistry & Lapidary","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Hayter","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-4_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9231586"},{"teacherId":9632544,"projectId":8574743,"letterContent":"Thank you so much for contributing to the student's learning throughout this first semester! We have explored various feminist topics through literature and real-world examples. The ability to keep our materials organized and available allowed students to create some truly incredible pieces of artwork that represented what feminism means to them! \r\n\r\nFor the exploration of our novel Juliet Takes a Breath by Gabby Rivera we were able to create anchor charts that helped students understand the central ideas of the novel and how they contribute to the overall themes the novel teaches us. The artwork the students created helped showcase their understanding of the five central ideas of the novel, which then allowed them to write deeper analytical essays on the themes of the novel. \r\n\r\nThe class's learning was made ten times better simply because we had the materials to create rather than just write an essay. We are so grateful for your donation!","fullyFundedDate":1727462998715,"projectUrl":"project/herstory-feminist-literature/8574743/","projectTitle":"Herstory & Feminist Literature","teacherDisplayName":"Mrs. Punt","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-3_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9632544"},{"teacherId":9633141,"projectId":8576771,"letterContent":"I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for choosing me as a recipient of the Donors Choose grant. Your contribution to supplying the materials for my students means more than words can express.\r\n\r\nThese students are really remarkable individuals, each with their own unique talents and strengths. Whether it's their creativity, empathy, or knack for hands-on projects, they bring their diverse perspectives and energy to the classroom. These materials play a vital role in helping them to grow in ways that will make a lasting impact on their education and dreams.\r\n\r\nThey were so excited to use the external CD/DVD to make a CD for their presentation after completing it for their presentation. The external hard drive gave me the extra storage necessary for me to have them each save their presentation.\r\n\r\nThe students wanted to explore other apps that they could access to be creative in make their presentation appealing and interactive.\r\nThey are determined learners who constantly inspire me with their grit and perseverance. Despite challenges, they are highly motivated to succeed and put in the extra effort needed to reach their goals. Your generosity has provided they with not just the tools, but also the encouragement to explore approaches, develop innovative solutions, and expand their dreams.\r\n\r\nThank you once again for supporting my students and believing in their potential. Your kindness and vision are making a tangible difference, and for that, I am deeply grateful.","fullyFundedDate":1727462913926,"projectUrl":"project/unlocking-potential-evidence-based-appr/8576771/","projectTitle":"Unlocking Potential: Evidence-Based Approaches, Assisting Learners with Specific Learning Disabilities","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Willie","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-1_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9633141"},{"teacherId":9633510,"projectId":8577851,"letterContent":"Thank you for your donation. The equipment you donated has been used to help our teams get stronger and more agile. The pop-up defenders have been used in basketball practices to help with dribbling and learning how to get around defenders. Our athletes have been actively using the dumbbells and agility equipment during their off-season to help them get in shape for their season. \r\nOur next step with the equipment is to continue encouraging the athletes to learn about the importance of taking care of their bodies and continue to get stronger so they lower the risks of injury during practices and games. This is essential as we want them to enjoy playing their sports, but also stay safe and strong.","fullyFundedDate":1727463014575,"projectUrl":"project/unleash-your-beast-mode/8577851/","projectTitle":"Unleash Your Beast Mode!","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. Alvarez","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-6_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9633510"},{"teacherId":9227309,"projectId":8569311,"letterContent":"On behalf of the students, teachers, and staff at WSHS, I want to express our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation of supplies. Your support plays a crucial role in creating a positive and productive learning environment for our students.\r\n\r\nThe supplies you provided will go a long way in enhancing our classroom activities and ensuring that every student has the tools they need to succeed. Your generosity is deeply appreciated by our entire school community, and it serves as an inspiring example of the positive impact that can be made when individuals like yourself invest in education.\r\n\r\nPlease know that your contribution has made a significant difference in the lives of our students and teachers. We are incredibly grateful for your kindness and support.\r\n\r\nOnce again, thank you for your generosity. We look forward to keeping you updated on how your donation is making a difference in our classrooms.","fullyFundedDate":1723155470118,"projectUrl":"project/adulting-101/8569311/","projectTitle":"Adulting 101","teacherDisplayName":"Ms. A","teacherPhotoUrl":"https://cdn.donorschoose.net/images/placeholder-avatars/272/teacher-placeholder-5_272.png?auto=webp","teacherClassroomUrl":"classroom/9227309"}],"pageName":"schoolpage_42252","usesDonorsChoose":true,"infoPageType":"school","demographicsInfo":{"numStudents":410,"numTeachers":19,"percentFrplEligible":83,"percentAsian":4,"percentBlack":6,"percentWhite":10,"percentIndigenous":0,"percentLatinx":74,"showFreeAndReducedPriceLunchInfo":true,"showDemographicsInfo":true,"sourceTooltipString":"the National Center for Education Statistics","gradesServed":"9 - 12","studentTeacherRatio":"21.6:1","demographicsDataSource":"MDR School","equityFocus":true,"titleOne":false,"metroType":"URBAN","ncesMetroType":"CITY_LARGE"},"inStateSupporters":60.6,"schoolId":42252,"financialInfo":null,"twitterShareText":"Learn more about William Smith High School on @DonorsChoose:","schoolName":"William Smith High School","canonicalPageUrl":"schools/colorado/aurora-public-school-district/william-smith-high-school/42252"}
Join the 33 supporters who believe in this school.
About this school
William Smith High School is
an urban public school
in Aurora, Colorado that is part of Aurora Public School District.
It serves 410 students
in grades 9 - 12 with a student/teacher ratio of 21.6:1.
Its teachers have had 66 projects funded on DonorsChoose.
Boost support for our school's classrooms. Share this page with friends and family who want to make a difference. If you're a teacher, sign up to get started!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. Each classroom request for funding was created by a classroom teacher and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
of students receive free or reduced price lunch
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
Source: the National Center for Education Statistics
84%
of students are Black, Latino, Native
American, or Asian
Data about school demographics comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. The numbers in this chart may not add up to 100% because of limitations in the available data.
William Smith High School Support on DonorsChoose
Last updated Dec 5, 2025
DonorsChoose makes it easy for anyone to help a teacher in need, moving us closer to a nation where students
in every community have the tools and experiences they need for a great education.
William Smith High School
$65,210
raised using DonorsChoose
66
projects
funded
44
teachers
funded
33
donors
6
projects
for
basic supplies
24
projects for
technology
2
projects for
books
7
projects
for
art supplies
William Smith High School has received support from
20 individuals from Colorado and
13 individuals out-of-state.